Can a simple instrument measure polarization in gamma-ray bursts?

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0402596.pdf (193.03 KB)

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https://arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/0402596

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http://hdl.handle.net/11603/19612

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UMBC Physics Department
UMBC Center for Space Sciences and Technology (CSST) / Center for Research and Exploration in Space Sciences & Technology II (CRSST II)
UMBC Joint Center for Earth Systems Technology (JCET)

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2004-02-25

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journal articles preprints
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Citation of Original Publication

A. Curioni and N. Mirabal, Can a simple instrument measure polarization in gamma-ray bursts?, https://arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/0402596

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Abstract

The recent claim of a high degree of linear polarization in the prompt gamma-ray burst (GRB) emission of GRB 021206 might have important implications for the underlying mechanism ultimately responsible for the GRB radiation. While the claim itself remains controversial, a full characterization of the GRB polarization has become a scientific imperative. A review of past and present polarimetry missions motivates a set of guidelines for future dedicated GRB polarization experiments. It is also argued that polarization in GRBs could be measured by a relatively simple instrument using readily available technology.